The Rural Pact and LEADER: mutually reinforcing instruments
A thematic session during the recent LEADER Congress (18-19 December 2023) explored ways in which the EU Rural Vision and Rural Pact can strengthen LEADER and Local Action Groups (LAGs), as well as the added value LEADER can bring to the Pact’s implementation at the local level.
The session, jointly organised by the Rural Pact Support Office and the European Commission’s DG AGRI, highlighted the mutual benefits of collaboration between Rural Pact and LEADER actors. By harnessing the potential of LEADER, the Pact can enhance its recognition at national and EU levels, while LEADER can leverage the Pact to bolster its visibility and effectiveness in addressing rural challenges.
The value of the Rural Pact for LEADER
Despite being a new framework, the Rural Pact has the potential to raise the visibility and profile of rural issues and local actors, enhancing recognition of LAG initiatives and mobilising support around shared values. Giving more weight to LEADER in EU and national policy agendas, the Pact is well placed to bring new energy to both LAGs and the rural communities they support.
In practical terms, the Pact could contribute to improved planning of funding sources for rural areas, thus facilitating local strategy development.
LEADER contribution to Rural Pact implementation
A well-established and successful instrument, LEADER could bring the Pact to the local level. LAGs and their national or regional networks can provide support by animating stakeholders and disseminating information, thus mobilising local communities to implement actions that contribute to the Rural Pact.
LAGs could further contribute to stronger rural development policies at the regional, national, and EU levels by highlighting innovative solutions and up-to-date information on rural areas.
National and regional dimensions of the Rural Pact
The session highlighted two examples illustrating the translation of the Rural Pact into national and regional contexts:
- The Catalan Rural Pact emphasised the importance of involving LAGs and regional networks for engaging local stakeholders and achieving multi-level governance in the building process of Rural Pacts.
- The French Rural Agenda demonstrated the contribution of LEADER to the development of new tools for French territories, such as a platform consolidating all available aids and funds.
More information on the LEADER Congress
Congress highlights: LEADER's contribution to achieving the objectives of the long-term vision for EU’s rural areas
